A day after viral video, HP govt claims allegations against IGMC Shimla motivated
CBI court convicts Himachal IGP Zaidi, seven other police in custodial death case
CHANDIGARH: A Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court here convicted Himachal Pradesh Inspector General of Police Zahur Haider Zaidi and seven other police personnel in a case of custodial death of an accused in a gang rape and murder of a 16-year-old schoolgirl in Kotkhai of the hill state. The Additional District and Session Judge-cum-Special CBI Judge Alka Malik convicted all the eight accused including IGP Zahur Haider Zaidi, the then Deputy Superintendent of Police Manoj Joshi, Sub-Inspector Rajinder Singh, Assistant Sub-Inspector Deep Chand Sharma, Mohan Lal, Surat Singh, Rafee Mohammad and Ranit Sateta. All the convicted were taken into police custody. However, the court acquitted the then Superintendent of Police D W Negi. The court will pronounce the quantum of the sentence on January 27. The prosecution examined over 52 witnesses in the case. On July 4, 2017, a 16-year-old girl had gone missing in Kotkhai near Shimla and her body was found from the forests two days later on July 6. The post-mortem report had confirmed rape and murder; later, a case was registered. On July 13, 2017, a Special Investigating Team (SIT) headed by Zaidi was constituted by the then state government after public and outcry, which arrested Suraj Singh and four other alleged accused. On the intervening night of July 18 and 19, Singh died in police custod,y as per the CBI; the state police allegedly tortured him to extract his confession. The medical board concluded in its report that the injuries on the body of the deceased were sustained by a blunt hard cylindrical object such as lathi, rod or baton. However, the Himachal Pradesh Police has then claimed that he was killed by another accused in a scuffle in the lock-up. The Himachal Pradesh High Court then handed over the investigations of both the cases to the CBI. After registering the case on July 22, 2017, the CBI had then arrested Zaidi and other police personnel. In 2019, the Supreme Court transferred this case of custodial death from Shimla to Chandigarh on a plea filed by the CBI for expeditious disposal of the case. 1994 batch IPS officer Zaidi was awarded the presidents police medal for meritorious service in 2010.
From vignyan to gyan: Abhey Singh alias IITian Baba's quest for truth brings him to Mahakumbh
He speaks in staccato. Sounds silly and sublime at the same time. And breaks into a delightful impromptu jig. The first week of Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, already visited by over 70 million, saw this unlikely head-turner, Abhey Singh, 34, now a media star identified by the masses as 'IITian Baba'. Abhey Singh's life journey is one as unique as the spelling of his name. From science to spirituality -- from vignyan to gyan -- he is now on a quest to explore the meaning of his existence and purpose of his life. My existence is unrestricted and boundless. I possess complete freedom to undertake any action, unbound by limitations or constraints, he tells media persons, now following him in droves. He is a complete nomad even at the Mahakumbh and it's difficult to spot him at one place. After the limelight remained trained on him at the beginning of the Mela, he suddenly disappeared for a couple of days, but showed up on Friday evening, claiming that seers were spreading rumours about his 'vanishing' act due to his popularity. Born to lawyer father and a homemaker mother in Jhajjar, Haryana, Abhey was exceptional in academics. His entry to IIT-Bombay in 2008 was a testimony to this. He completed his four-year degree in aerospace engineering like a normal whiz kid. In came a campus placement at a Delhi firm. Nothing unusual on the surface. But somewhere within there was growing restlessness. I studied at IIT-Bombay for four years, and also did MDS from there. But there was something amiss. Soon, I developed interest in arts and photography, he says. He also did a course in fine arts. But equilibrium was nowhere to be seen. Still, despite a tumultuous state of mind, he carried on for some more years. A high-paying job took him to Canada in 2016. But at the same time disenchantment with the material world was on full throttle. In one of the Instagram posts from 2016, he writes in a philosophical post: There were so many things I did not want to be, but they were deep within me. So I cut parts of me out. With time, more parts I chopped. The less remained. And now I wonder who it is that is 'left'. The Covid pandemic revealed to him the unpredictability of life. He left Canada for good. The family, expectedly, was not amused. But, for Abhey, the familial thread had weakened. Parents' appeal for pursuing a normal life remained unheeded. And he often started remaining outdoors. His passion for photography and travelling added to his spiritual pursuit. Soon he realised his real calling lay in the hills. For the next couple of years, he was off to Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh -- Rishikesh, Haridwar, Shimla, Mussoorie, Dharamshala. Spending harsh winters at these places triggered his own metamorphosis. Then I spent a couple of days with an Aghori baba performing week-long sadhna (meditations)... life changed after that, he says. Crisp suit and tie gave way to saffron rob and Rudraksh. A few months ago, he met Baba Someshwar Puri of Juna Akhara in Varanasi, who brought him to Mahakumbh. Now soaked in ascetic ecstasy and basking in the fame that he is getting here, he says: I have finally understood the truth. Gyan ke peeche chalte jao, chalte jao, aur kahan jaoge, yahin aoge (Keep following the path of knowledge and wisdom. Where else will you go? You will return to your roots). I don't want to get stuck, I don't want to stop. When a man doesn't get stuck anywhere, then he becomes free, he says, declaring I have no friend, nor I am in touch with my family. He last spoke to his parents six months ago. They, of course, want him back, but deep within they know it's a difficult demand.
Dr Jitendra reiterates BJPs commitment to constitutional values laid down by Ambedkar
Excelsior Correspondent SHIMLA, Jan 17: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh delivered a thought-provoking speech in Shimla, emphasizing the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) unwavering commitment to the constitutional values laid down by Ambedkar and upholding its democratic principles. Speaking at an event organised by Himachal Pradesh State BJP and attended by prominent leaders including LoP and former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, State BJP chief Dr Rajiv Bindal, MP Rajya Sabha Sikander Kumar and party workers, Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined the BJPs [] The post Dr Jitendra reiterates BJPs commitment to constitutional values laid down by Ambedkar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dr Jitendra highlights Shimla Meteorological Centres critical role in Himalayan region
Excelsior Correspondent SHIMLA, Jan 17: Marking the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh visited one of the countrys oldest Meteorological Centre here and highlighted its critical role in the Himalayan region. The Minister spotlighted the institutions historic role and its continued commitment to advancing weather [] The post Dr Jitendra highlights Shimla Meteorological Centres critical role in Himalayan region appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh going around different sections of the Meteorological Centre marking the 150th Year of IMD at Shimla on Friday. The post Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh going around different sections of the Meteorological Centre marking the 150th Year of IMD at Shimla on Friday. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SpaDex docking a step towards Indian Space Station by 2035: Minister Jitender Singh
CHANDIGARH: Union Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Science Jitender Singh said that an Indian Space Station would be established by 2035. He added that the successful docking of satellites through SpaDex is a major breakthrough in that direction. Speaking during his visit to Shimla IMD station, Minister Jitender Singh said that Bhartiya Antriksh Station is essential for docking of satellites in future. India Meteorological Department, established in 1875, has completed 150 years today. It is a matter of satisfaction that our weather forecast and disaster preparedness capabilities are comparable or better than any other countries, we are sharing information with other countries, he said. Our capabilities are comparable to those of leading nations, and in a few areas we have surpassed them. The emphasis placed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is evident through initiatives like 'Mission Mausam', it also underscores the department's growing significance. Singh said the Shimla IMD station still occupies an important place due to its topographical and geographical situation and is more relevant as compared to other stations. The British set up the IMD after a severe storm in the northeast. The Shimla station was one of the initial stations and remained the headquarters of IMD for a long period during British rule. It was later shifted to Pune and finally to Delhi after Independence. Himachal Pradesh IMD head, Kuldeep Srivastava, detailed enhancements in regional meteorological facilities, proposing new radars for comprehensive state coverage and an agreement for a 48-hour advance forecast model.
SpaDex Docking Step Towards Indian Space Station By 2035: Jitender Singh
SHIMLA, Jan 17: An Indian Space station would be established by 2035 and the successful docking of satellites through SpaDex is a major breakthrough in that direction, Union Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Science Jitender Singh said here on Friday. Speaking during his visit to Shimla IMD station here, the minister said Bhartiya Antriksh Station is essential for docking of satellites in future. India Meteorological Department, established in 1875, has completed 150 years today it is [] The post SpaDex Docking Step Towards Indian Space Station By 2035: Jitender Singh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
2 friends returning from Shimla trip die in Delhi SUV crash
An SUV accident on Delhi's GT Karnal Road claimed the lives of Kartik and Yashraj, who were returning from a trip to Shimla. The accident occurred at around 3:10 am when their vehicle overturned. Authorities have initiated legal proceedings and are investigating the cause of the accident.
Ludhiana to launch slum rehabilitation project in Shimlapuri
Himachal Pradesh govt to set up Special Task Force to combat drug abuse and organised crime
CHANDIGARH: The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to set up a Special Task Force (STF) to deal with drug trafficking cases. The aim is to combat drug abuse and dismantle organized crime networks. The decision comes in the backdrop of a 40 percent surge in cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act over the past 14 years and the doubling of heroin-related cases from 29 percent to 50 percent between 2019 to 2023. The Special Task Force (STF) will be established under Additional Director General of Police or Inspector General of Police and this initiative aims to make the state drug-free and foster a healthy and civilized society. The STF will be equipped with a dedicated commando force, with personnel undergoing specialized training on anti-narcotics and organized crime in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau. Half of the STF personnel will be recruited specifically for this purpose, while the remaining staff will be drawn from the existing Police Department. The primary objectives of the STF include disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking networks, taking action against drug kingpins and organized gangs, and strengthening intelligence gathering through faster forensic protocols. The task force will conduct coordinated raids, seize illicit assets linked to the drug trade, and implement preventive detention of habitual offenders. The STF will independently register and investigate cases through STF Police Stations or in collaboration with local police and special units at the range, district, or subdivision level. It will also monitor the activities of de-addiction centers to prevent their misuse. To strengthen its operations, the STF will operate across three zones headed by Superintendents of Police in Dharamshala, Parwanoo and Mandi, with its headquarters in Shimla. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that drug abuse has become a global challenge requiring stringent measures. He said, he state government has enacted laws to curb this menace including provisions for confiscating the properties of offenders involved in drug trafficking. Additionally, the state government aims to promote rehabilitation over punitive measures by expanding access to addiction treatment and compassionate rehabilitation programmes. Community engagement will be enhanced through initiatives like the Him Veer program and Him Dost, along with statewide awareness campaigns in schools and colleges. To ensure swift justice, the Government plans to establish special courts for NDPS cases and focus on fast-track investigations and prosecutions, said Sukhu. The task force will submit fortnightly progress reports to the government, which will review its actions and strategies as needed. This comprehensive approach underscores the Governments commitment to eradicating drug abuse and creating a safer and healthier Himachal Pradesh, said Sukhu. Sukhu who virtually attended the recent regional conference on drug trafficking and national security in Delhi and said that properties worth Rs 16 crore belonging to drug peddlers had been confiscated in the past three years, including Rs 9 crore last year alone. He had expressed concern over the growing prevalence of synthetic drugs, citing their potency, addictive nature, and complex chemical composition. Sukhu has emphasized the need for a multi-pronged strategy to tackle drug trafficking, particularly in border areas like Una, Solan, Bilaspur and Paonta Sahib, which have become vulnerable to the menace. Meanwhile state government has also tied up with Needle Leaf Foundation-The Saviour, an NGO, to control the rising cases of drug abuse among youth and check forest fires. Sukhu inaugurated these two projects, which will be implemented by the NGO.
Anupam Kher Revisits Early Days With An Open Letter To Himself: You'll Cry Over Lost Roles But...
Anupam Kher recalled sitting in a small room in Shimla, practicing lines he believed no one would ever hear and dreaming of a future in Bollywood and theater that seemed like a dream.
Devotees take dip in rivers in Himachal to mark Makar Sankranti
Devotees take dip in rivers in Himachal to mark Makar Sankranti Shimla/Manali: Devotees across Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday took a dip in rivers braving cold weather to mark the auspicious Makar Sankranti festival. A huge gathering was seen at Tattapani, around 52 km from the state capital, and Manikaran, home to a Sikh shrine in [] The post Devotees take dip in rivers in Himachal to mark Makar Sankranti appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Himachal Pradesh: People threaten to launch mass agitation against hydroelectric projects
CHANDIGARH: People are up in arms against the Himachal Pradesh government's plan to commission mega hydroelectric projects in the Chenab basin located across Kullu, Chamba,Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti and Shimla districts. The projects ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW pose significant threat to the delicate ecosystem of the region as it is home to fragile Himalayan glaciers and diverse biodiversity. The local residents, social activists and environmentalists have expressed serious concern over the projects. They have threatened to launch a mass agitation in Lahaul Spiti if the state government goes ahead with the plan. Talking with this newspaper, Advocate Sudarshan Thakur, a member of the people's movement against the 400 MW Seli hydro project around a decade back says, he main reason for opposing these large-scale hydroelectric projects in the Chenab basin is the seismic vulnerability of environmentally fragile Lahaul and Spiti as it is situated in seismic zones 4 and 5. This makes it highly susceptible to earthquakes and has a potential for widespread environmental damage. Moreover, the other reasons for opposing the project include climate change and unbridled development carried out with an eye on local tourism potentials. Thus these projects could exacerbate the regions vulnerability to natural disasters such as landslides and floods, the advocate said. Instead of going for big projects the government should look at the possibilities of small projects which are of 10 to 25 MG upto a maximum of 100 MG which does not require construction of dams and are environment-friendly. Already in few villages cracks have appeared in houses in Lindoor village, he added. Guman Singh, an environmentalist and coordinator of Himalaya Niti Abhiyan said, These mega hydel projects should be banned above 6000 feet height across Himalayan region especially in the Chenab basin of Lahaul Spiti as it is frangile area and can cause soil erosion, landslides also in depletion of glaciers and making a glacier of lakes and they can burst any time. As human activity will increase in this region the depletion of glaciers will also increase many fold as temperatures will rise. These mega-projects can cause habitat destruction, deforestation, and even displacement of communities. The government should not set-up these hydro projects in the eco-sensitive zones like Lahaul Spiti. Look at Kinnaur, how hydro projects have turned that place into a constant landslide zone, he said. Stressing the importance of promoting eco-tourism and emphasizing the need for sustainable development practices in the region, The Save Lahaul and Spiti Society, President BS Rana said, we strongly oppose the commissioning of mega hydroelectric projects in the Chenab Basin as these projects pose far more risk than beneficial. Many local residents believe that large-scale hydropower projects could irreversibly damage the environment of the Himalayan region, impacting water quality, agriculture and wildlife. The state government had recently announced 22 hydro-projects in Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Shimla districts ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW, with a combined capacity of 828 MW. Out of the proposed 22 projects, nine projects with a total capacity of 595 MW in the Chenab basin of Lahaul Spiti and 8 projects of 169 MW capacity will come up in the Satluj river basin, four projects of 55 MW in the Ravi basin, and one project of 9 MW in the Beas basin. Successive state governments in the last two decades have allotted at least seven hydro projects in Lahaul Spiti in Jispa, Rashel, Tandi, Bardang, Miyar, Tindi, Seli, and Reoli villages. But none of these projects have taken off due to stiff resistance from the locals.
Shimla-The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, in its meeting held on Thursday, approved the inclusion of the following families in the BPL list: Families with no adult members between the ages of 18 and 59. Women-headed families. Families whose head has a disability of 50 per cent or more. Families that worked for at least 100 days [] The post HP Cabinet Decisions: Eligibility Criteria for BPL List, Special Task Force to Combat Drug Abuse & Other Decisions first appeared on Himachal Watcher .
Add these 15 enchanting experiences to your bucket list in 2025, that are worth a lifetime!
Let the feeling of the New Year sink in, it is time to get on to some new experiences. Those that you shall add to your already pending bucket list, those that you will just feel like hopping on to right now. Here are some, right in India. You know the destinations, but the glory of the place is worth to be experienced at a certain point of time. Thus, we have got it prepared for you. The long weekends in 2025 shall be utilized well. Come, check it- Kumbh Mela The first event that you got to experience at the beginning of the year is to visit the Mahakumbh. After a gap of 12 years, in 2025 the Mahakumbh is going to take place at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This religious event is the largest human gathering on the planet. Take a dip on the day of the Shahi snan in the Ganges, visit the camps of various spiritual leaders and be a part of the once in 12- year experience at the Mahakumbh 2025. It will begin on Jan 13 th 2025 and will continue till Feb 26, 2025. Do not miss the event of the year! Rann Mahotsav The ongoing Rann Mahotsav will continue till March 15, 2025. Celebrate the natural bliss of the White desert with the vivid cultural heritage of Gujarat. You can enjoy a comfortable stay at the Tent city and enjoy various activities and adventures, the music and folk dance performances of the local artists, the traditional crafts of artisans, and relaxation with meditation at spa. During the Rann Mahotsav, the beauty of Kutch is a splendid experience. You should go for it now, before the festival ends! Attractive packages are available for an amazing visit. Experience Holi as a local India is on a festival spree every year. Apart from all the festivals, the Holi fervor is always on a high. Why not celebrate the best of Holi at the most known places of the country? Be one with the local community and enjoy the festival of colors like never before. You can head out for- the Bra ki Holi in Mathura, around the Banke Bihari and Gopinath temple in Vrindavan, the Barsane ki Holi near Mathura, the ultimate experience of Holi in the Pink city of Jaipur, the best eve of Holi, i.e. Holika dahan in Udaipur, on the shores of Lake Pichola in Pushkar, in the idyllic spot Varanasi and near the Golden temple of Goddess Durga in Amritsar. Plus, it is a long weekend at the time of Holi this year. So you just cannot miss at any cost. The Taj Mahal at sunrise or on full moon Its a spectacular experience to visit the Taj Mahal. But have you ever imagined the beauty of the monument at sunrise and on a full moon night? It would be one of a kind. For a breathtaking sight where the rays of the sun fall on the white marble structure, when there is no flock of visitors seen, get out early and gaze at the Taj Mahal. And if you want to see it in the moonlight, then also you have got a chance. For, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) keeps the Taj Mahal open for visitors five days a month after sunset. Go for it to witness the magical hues right in front of your eyes. Spot the Bengal tiger The big roaring cat is a sight to behold. And the Indian subcontinent has a significant number to its tiger population. Add the unique thrilling safari experience to your bucket list now. Well, the best place to spot the Bengal tiger would be the Sunderbans in West Bengal. Get on the boat safari to look out for the Bengal tiger that lives in the semi-aquatic lifestyle in the Sundarbans, the Worlds largest Mangroves. Yet you can look out for other wildlife sanctuaries, national parks and tiger reserves in India. These include the Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Ranthambore, Tadoba, Pench and the Jim Corbett. At the Golden temple One of the most serene places you will ever be at, the Golden temple. Visit the Golden temple to attend the Palki ceremony and be a part of the Langar for lunch. The Palki ceremony is commenced at pre-dawn when the Sikh holy book is carried in a palanquin from the Alakh takht inner chamber (where it rests at night) to the main sanctum of the temple. The devotees sing bugles and devotional songs. The practice is reversed at night. It will be the best sacred visit of your life. Every day, a langar is organized for the worshippers and pilgrims at the Golden temple. Go out to help in the kitchen preparing the meals, and in the end seat in the lines to experience the most beautiful meal for the day. Serving at the Golden temple is the ultimate human experience one can ever have. Ganga Aarti at Haridwar On the banks of the river Ganges, the evening prayer is the most blissful religious ritual to be a part of. Thousands of pilgrims assemble to witness the Ganga Aarti at the Har-ki Pauri Ghat. It is organized every morning and evening by the Ganga Sabha. Offering of Panchamrut and flowers is made to Ganga while chanting the Ganga Lahari Mantra. Lastly, a special song for Ganga can be heard in the speakers when Aarti is offered by lighting the copper diya. It can be the most overwhelming experience of your lifetime. Night Kayaking in Andaman The Bioluminescence effect of the Andaman Islands is surreal. And it is only experienced at night by Kayaking in the calm waters with dense mangroves around. The best time to go for Kayaking is during no-moon or full moon phase. It also takes place on other days, only the bioluminescence effect is reduced by 20-30% in comparison to the dark days. The luminescent plankton glows blue in the depths of the waters of Andaman sea. You can even stargaze on the Kayak, at the best adventure of your life. The best places to opt for Night Kayaking include Port Blair, Havelock, Baratang, Neil Island and the Ross Island. Get onto the Kayak to immerse yourself in the spell-bounding luminescent night! Stay in the traditional homestays Homestays are quite in trend these days, with visitors looking for that home feeling while travelling. There are many traditional homestays in various parts of India offering the most comfortable, cozy, homely experience. They serve you with the best local cuisine with a unique cultural experience. You can also look for some homestays that are reviving the rich heritage of India. The best traditional homestays of India date back to five decades and more. Ones you can experience include- Slow Garden (Ladakh), Krishnayan Heritage (Gwalior), Shahpura Bagh (Shahpura), Ranjit Svasa (Amritsar), Philipkuttys farm, Kumarakom (Kerala), Premkunj (Udaipur), Jungle Lodge (Shimla) and many more homestays that are being opened by people in their old homes for visitors. An Ayurvedic retreat The land of Rishi Patanjali, yoga and Ayurveda, India has a variety of hosts offering you the ultimate Ayurvedic wellness. There is a long list of Ayurvedic rejuvenation centers and resorts in the country. Why not try something new and go for an Ayurvedic holiday for a therapeutic experience. The experts and doctors treat you with therapies even for some acute medical conditions, with meditation and yoga and the best from Ayurveda. So, basically it will be a peaceful, healthy and healing trip. The best in India are- Ananda in Himalayas (Uttarakhand), Ashok Country Resort (New Delhi), The Leela (Udaipur), Devaaya, The Ayurvedic and Nature Cure Center (Goa), Somatheeram Ayurveda resort and Kairali Ayurvedic Health Village, both in Kerala. Explore famous food streets Well, who doesnt love the Indian street food. Say the name of the dish and everyone is up for it. You might always go down the street in your city, but have you ever experienced the delight of eating at some of the famous Indian streets? Its so deliciously amazingyou should try visiting these food streets for a real good culinary experience of your lifetime. Know the delicacies, culture and cuisine of India through its street food. Sarafa bazaar (Indore), Chowk and Aminabad (Lucknow), Old city and Majithia road (Amritsar), Paranthevali gali (Delhi), Gol Park (Kolkata), VV Puram, Mosque road, Avenue road and Church street (Bengaluru), Muhammad Ali road (Mumbai), Manek chowk (Ahmedabad) and Chartori gali (Bhopal) are some of the famous food streets of India that are a heaven for a food lover. Encounter the elusive Snow leopard In the high altitude mountains of the Himalayas, you can track down the striking beauty of the Snow leopard. It can camouflage easily in the snow, with patterned spots and thick fur, often called as mountain ghosts by the locals. An estimated 718 snow leopards are left in the Himalayan region. Watching the big cat is the most thrilling experience to have. Coming month of February is the best month to spot them, when they come out to lower regions in search of prey. Visit the Himalayan states of Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Sikkim to catch the sight of the elusive cat species. Explore the stars, sky and space Get a step ahead of star gazing, know more about the stars, the sky and the space. You will know space exploration, astronomy and associated technologies, and you will be surprised to know Indias advancement. Visit the biggest planetariums in the country, even the best in Asia for an educational and entertainment treat. Delve into one of a kind experience that you will have at- The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata (also known as Taramandal which is the largest in Asia and 2 nd largest in the world), Hyderabad and Chennai are the top most. Others include the Nehru Planetarium (Mumbai), Guwahati Planetarium (Assam) and the Ahmedabad Planetarium (Gujarat). Celebrate Cinema at the iconic Raj Mandir All things glamour and iconic at the Raj Mandir cinema of Jaipur. The Raj Mandir Cinema has become symbolic with time. It is often called as Cinema ka Mandir. The meringue shaped auditorium is in business since 1976. Movie premieres are a different feel at Raj Mandir, which is well equipped with the latest sound and technology. Designed in the art moderne style, it has art deco chandeliers and velvet drapes adding to the charm of the interiors here. Not to forget the jasmine scented air conditioning of the cinema theatre. Thus, experience the best of cinema at the Raj Mandir! Ride Kettuvallam in Kerala To those who dont know the Kettuvallam is a traditional houseboat in Kerala. It is made up of bamboo, coir and wood, that reflects Keralas authentic craftsmanship. Basically, it is now a cruise that sails in the backwaters of Kerala. With lagoons, lakes and canals forming the network of water channels in Kerala, the Kettuvallam is worth the ride. You can also watch out the sunset and enjoy a delicious supper that is rich in Kerala cuisine. Do not miss your leisurely Kettuvallam cruise in Kerala. Thus, with this you can experience the best of India in 2025, that you will remember for a lifetime. And when you are done, you can tick this off your bucket list. Happy travelling and Happy experiences!
Setting up AFT benches in J&K, Shimla will reduce pendency: SC
NEW DELHI, Jan 6 : The Supreme Court on Monday called for setting up Armed Forces Tribunal benches in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, to deal with the growing pendency of defence-related cases. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh said at present AFT, Chandigarh, was burdened by a huge backlog from these states and setting up circuit benches at Jammu and Kashmir, Shimla and Dharamshala, would help in speedy disposal of cases. Refusing [] The post Setting up AFT benches in J&K, Shimla will reduce pendency: SC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Watch: Man Slides Down On Rope Over 'Valley Of Death' In Himachal As 40-Year-Old Ritual Returns
The Bhunda Mahayagya tradition is observed once every four decades in upper Shimla. Surat Ram, 65, slid down the oil soaked-divine rope, called munji as thousands watched.
Man Slides Across Himachal Valley On Rope As Ritual Returns After 40 Years
Himachal Pradesh's Shimla is witnessing a rare and age-old religious tradition that is believed to bring together the deities of the Spail Valley, showcasing the region's vibrant cultural heritage.
Zero visibility at 5 Punjab, Hry cities; plains colder than Shimla
Shimla sees record maximum temperature in January
The Met office said Himachal Pradesh was expected to receive snow and rain on Sunday and Monday
Delhi Under Dense Fog: Flight Disruptions and Cold Wave Hit National Capital
NEW DELHI: Dense fog enveloped Delhi on January 4, significantly affecting flight operations. The Delhi airport issued an advisory urging passengers to check flight schedules with their respective airlines, especially for flights not compliant with CAT III protocols. IndiGo Airlines also confirmed that fog-induced disruptions were delaying flights in the capital. Cold Wave Tightens Grip on Delhi As temperatures continued to plummet, Delhi recorded 10.2C at 5:30 a.m. on Saturday, slightly higher than Friday's 9.6C. A biting cold wave swept through the city, compelling many homeless residents to seek refuge in night shelters. The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) reported that all beds at its Lodhi Road night shelter were occupied. Additionally, 235 pagoda tents were set up across key locations, including AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and the Nizamuddin flyover, to accommodate more people during the harsh winter nights. Air Quality Worsens The air quality in Delhi remained in the 'very poor' category, with an AQI of 385 recorded at 6:00 a.m., up from 348 the previous day. The Central Pollution Control Board noted that prolonged exposure to such conditions could pose severe health risks, especially for vulnerable groups. Cold Wave Sweeps Across North India Neighboring states also battled extreme weather conditions. Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh recorded a minimum temperature of 11.4C on Saturday morning, while Mainpuri experienced dense fog. Residents across the region were seen gathering around bonfires to ward off the cold. Shimla Records Unusual January Heat Himachal Pradesh's capital, Shimla, recorded its highest-ever daytime January temperature of 21.6C on January 4. Dr. Kuldeep Srivastava from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed this to prolonged clear skies, leading to warmer days. However, a fresh Western Disturbance is expected to bring heavy snowfall and rainfall across Himachal Pradesh between January 5 and 7. The IMD predicts light to moderate snowfall in regions like Lahaul, Spiti, and Kinnaur, with rain and thundershowers likely in parts of Punjab and Haryana. These weather changes are expected to bring temporary relief from the unusual temperature patterns in Shimla while intensifying winter conditions in other northern states.
State govt to allocate 22 new hydropower projects of 828 MW capacity: CM Sukhu
SHIMLA, Jan 2: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday said the state government is set to allocate 22 new hydropower projects with a total capacity of 828 MW. The projects, ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW, are located across the districts of Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla. He said the largest allocation comprising nine projects with a total capacity of 595 MW is planned for the Chenab river basin. Additionally, eight projects totalling 169 MW [] The post State govt to allocate 22 new hydropower projects of 828 MW capacity: CM Sukhu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The projects, ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW, are located across the districts of Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla
Himachal likely to receive fresh snowfall, rainfall from Jan 2
Mid and high hill areas of Himachal Pradesh are expected to receive fresh snowfall and rainfall from January 2, officials said on Wednesday, while plains and low hills are expected to remain dry. As per the meteorological department, the state is expected to receive snowfall from January 4 to 7 with heavy rainfall on January 5 and 6. Mid and high hill areas are expected to receive fresh snowfall and rainfall from January 2 while plains and low hill areas are expected to remain dry. Meanwhile, the weather was mostly dry across the state during the past 24 hours. The minimum temperature in Shimla was recorded at 7.6 degrees Celsius, Dharamshala at 5.9 degrees Celsius, Manali at 2.4 degrees Celsius, Bhuntar at 2.9 degrees Celsius, Kalpa at minus 3.8 degrees Celsius, Nahan at 6.3 degrees Celsius, Kasauli at 9.2 degrees Celsius, Una at 4.4 degrees Celsius, Kangra at 5.2 degrees Celsius and Mandi at 17.9 degrees Celsius. With a 21.4 degrees Celsius maximum temperature, Sundernagar in Mandi district was the hottest place in the state while Tabo village in tribal district Lahaul and Spiti was the coldest as it recorded minus 16.7 C minimum temperature.
HIPA to be renamed after Dr Manmohan Singh: Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while presiding over the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) in Shimla today, announced that the institute would be renamed after former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. Sukhu praised Dr Singhs policies, stating that they had greatly contributed to the development of India and Himachal Pradesh. He added that Dr Singhs efforts had brought significant benefits and recognition to the state. On the occasion, Sukhu unveiled a coffee table book published by HIPA and inaugurated a training programme for special educators at the institute. The programme, which will continue until 3 January, will involve 80 teachers. Sukhu said, This programme will equip teachers with modern techniques for educating children with special needs and will offer an alternative to the traditional Braille method. As part of the states inclusive development efforts, the Chief Minister announced an increase in the monthly pension for visually impaired children, raising it from Rs 1,500 to Rs 4,000 per month until the age of 27. He added that this change would be incorporated into the upcoming budget. The State Government is taking significant steps to make visually impaired individuals self-reliant and ensure their rightful share in the resources of the state, he said. Sukhu highlighted the states financial situation, noting that Himachal Pradesh generates an annual income of Rs 16,000 crore, while expenditure on salaries and pensions amounts to Rs 27,000 crore. He emphasised the need for a sustainable financial roadmap and called for collective efforts and support from all sections of society to increase the states income and secure a prosperous future. He said, Over the past two years, the present State Government has worked diligently to stabilise the derailed financial condition of the state, for which employees and officials have provided immense support. Sukhu reiterated that all sections of society have a rightful share in the states resources and stated that the government was implementing significant policy changes to ensure equitable and overall development. He added, Strengthening the rural sector of the state has always been the topmost priority for the government, and many new initiatives will be introduced in the coming months. The Chief Minister also highlighted various schemes introduced by the Government, including the Mukhya Mantri Sukh Ashray Yojna for orphaned children, programmes for widows, and measures to support single women. He said, These efforts reflect the commitment of the State Government to the well-being of all sections of society. Sukhu underscored the importance of good governance and effective, technology-based training programmes for officials to achieve this goal. He remarked, Good governance is the core mantra of the Congress Government, and HIPA plays an important role in providing quality training to the officers and officials of the state.
CBI probes ED officers in bribery and scholarship scam
SHIMLA, Jan 1: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two First Information Reports (FIRs) against officials of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), including an Assistant Director and senior officers posted in Shimla, for allegedly demanding and accepting bribes. The bribery allegations are linked to the ongoing investigation of the 181 crore scholarship scam in Himachal Pradesh. According to CBI sources, the first FIR pertains to a bribe demand of 85 lakh, while the second involves 80 lakh. Both cases [] The post CBI probes ED officers in bribery and scholarship scam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
OYO Rooms' founder, Ritesh Agarwal, has revealed that several lesser-known hill stations and spiritual destinations saw a dramatic surge in bookings this New Year. Locations like Coorg and Mussoorie experienced notable growth, while spiritual sites like Shirdi and Ajmer also attracted record numbers of travellers. OYO's global bookings increased by 58% compared to 2023, with over 10 lakh users on New Year's Eve. The company also posted a profit, buoyed by its acquisition of G6 Hospitality.
Himachal Pradesh: CBI probes ED officers in Rs 181 crore scholarship scam
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two First Information Reports (FIRs) against officials of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), including an Assistant Director and senior officers posted in Shimla, for allegedly demanding and ...
Shimla's historic Ridge witnesses subdued yet joyful New Year celebrations amidst national mourning
Shimla's iconic Ridge, known for its panoramic views and festive charm, became a hub of activity on New Year's Eve as hundreds of locals and tourists gathered to welcome 2025.
ED bribery case: CBI registers two FIRs against agencys assistant director, other officials
NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two FIRs against the Enforcement Directorate officers including an Assistant Director and a few senior officers posted in Shimla for demanding and accepting bribes, sources said. The first case involved an alleged bribe amount worth Rs 85 lakh and the second one Rs 80 lakh, sources added. They said that the alleged bribery scandal involved EDs assistant director posted in Himachal Pradeshs capital city and the officer had escaped during a trap operation conducted by the the CBI last week. A source in the CBI said, The agency has now registered two FIRs with one pertaining to alleged bribe demand of Rs 85 lakh and another of Rs 80 lakh from the promoters of educational institutes in Himachal Pradesh. The promoters, who were also the complainant in the case, had addressed a press conference in Shimla and accused the assistant director of allegedly calling them to office, torturing them and demanding bribes. The sources said the CBI has three suspects under scanner in the case with the brother of the accused and a middleman already arrested, while the officer is understood to be on the run and has not joined the investigation so far. The assistant director of the ED posted at Shimla and his brother, a senior manager at the Punjab National Bank in Delhi, had allegedly gone to a location near Chandigarh to receive the bribe money from an educational institute promoter, who is facing a probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the sources said, adding that the probe into the matter pertains to post-matriculation scholarship scam in Himachal Pradesh. The owner of the educational institute had filed a complaint with the CBI about alleged extortion, based on which the Chandigarh unit of the agency planned the trap operation, where the complainant was asked to give a bribe of Rs 55 lakh in cash to the officer, with CBI sleuths keeping an eye, the sources said, adding that the plan was to nab the accused after the bribe money was transacted. The ED officer, who is on deputation from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), got alerted during the operation and allegedly fled, the sources said, adding that the attempts are on to track him. Meanwhile, sources in the ED said, the accused assistant director of its Shimla sub-zonal office and his supervisory officers - a deputy director and the joint director (based in Chandigarh) - have been transferred to Delhi after the case surfaced.
Himachal 2024 in review: Govt survives scare, samosas become political hot potato
Himachal Pradesh witnessed significant political and social upheavals in 2024, including the government's loss in Rajya Sabha polls, communal tensions in Shimla, financial troubles affecting public services, and controversial events involving Chief Minister Sukhu. The state struggles with natural disasters, controversial policies, and protests over government decisions.
Men Will Also Have To Pay Fee For Using Public Toilets In Shimla
Earlier, only women were being charged for using public toilets while the use of urinals were free for men. The fee will be collected at around 30 public toilets having high footfall, officials said
Another CBI Case Against ED Official For Demanding Bribes From Shimla Educational Institutes
The CBI has registered two FIRs against an ED assistant director in Shimla for allegedly demanding bribes from an educational institute promoters linked to a scholarship scam.
CBI books ED officer for extorting Shimla institutes
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered an FIR against an Enforcement Directorate (ED) assistant director who escaped during a trap operation last week. The ED officer, posted in Shimla, is accused of demanding bribes from promoters of educational institutes in Himachal Pradesh. The CBI has already arrested the officer's brother and a middleman in connection with the case. The ED officer and his supervisory officers have been transferred to Delhi.
Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia sworn in as new chief justice of Himachal HC
SHIMLA: Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia was sworn in as the new chief justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan here on Sunday. He was administered the oath of office by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and the ceremony was also attended by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. After taking the oath, Justice Sandhawalia expressed that Himachal Pradesh felt like home to him. Himachal Pradesh is a relatively small state with fewer criminal cases, with most cases being related to services and civil matters. I will work collaboratively to resolve cases as quickly as possible, he said. While extending his congratulations to the new Chief Justice, Sukhu said, I am confident that his extensive experience and vision will greatly benefit Himachal Pradesh and further elevate the essence of justice. He also expressed hope that Justice Sandhawalia's judicial acumen will contribute significantly to upholding the principles of justice in the state. Born on November 1, 1965, Justice Sandhawalia completed BA (Hons) from Chandigarh's DAV College in 1986 and earned his LLB from Panjab University in Chandigarh, in 1989. After completing his education, he was enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh. On February 4, 2024, he took charge as the acting Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
CBI Searches Premises Of ED Officer In Shimla, Seizes Cash
NEW DELHI, Dec 28: The CBI has searched the premises of an assistant director of the ED in Shimla, who managed to give a slip to the agency during a trap operation on Sunday and escaped, officials said. The assistant director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) posted at Shimla and his brother Vikas Deep, a senior manager in the Punjab National Bank in Delhi, had allegedly gone to Chandigarh to receive bribe money from a businessman, who is facing [] The post CBI Searches Premises Of ED Officer In Shimla, Seizes Cash appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Himachal Police rescues 8,000 tourists, 1,500 vehicles stranded by snowfall at Kullu
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Police rescued around 8,000 tourists and 1,500 vehicles stranded due to heavy snowfall at Solang Nala of Kullu district on the Manali-Leh highway. Sources said that heavy snowfall affected Lahaul Valley and the Manali area. Traffic was abruptly halted due to a snowstorm leaving vehicles and tourists trapped. The local administration swiftly began rescue operations, by deploying teams of the Kullu Police to ensure the safety of the tourists and other passengers. A senior police official confirmed that all the tourists and vehicles were safely evacuated from snow-bound Solang Nala and transported to a secure location in Manali, away from the affected area. Traffic towards Solang Valley and Lahaul Valley on the Manali-Leh highway beyond Nehru Kund will be restricted in view of public safety. Sources noted that the road is maintained by the BRO, but it lacks evacuation facilities for emergencies, as all-wheel-drive vehicles, snow-clearing equipment, and salt are required to manage heavy snowfall. The district administration had issued warnings to tourists and locals, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel in the area due to the ongoing snowfall and hazardous road conditions. The authorities have been working to clear the highway and restore normalcy, but have cautioned that similar disruptions may occur if the snowfall persists. The administration is monitoring the situation closely and is coordinating with weather agencies to ensure prompt action in case of further weather-related disruptions. Earlier in post of X, Kullu Police wrote, Due to fresh snowfall today on 27.12.2024, about 1000 tourists and other vehicles were stuck in Solang Nala. There were about 5000 tourists in these vehicles. The vehicles and tourists have been rescued by Kullu Police and taken to safe places. The rescue operation is still going on. Heavy rainfall and snowfall were recorded in at least six districts of the state on Friday, including Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, and Kinnaur. The IMD has issued an orange alert for snowfall and cold waves in the state on December 27 and 28. From December 29, a renewed cold wave is expected to impact the plains, including Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Una districts. These areas, along with Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba, are likely to experience severe cold conditions until January 1. The IMD also warned of dense fog in isolated areas on January 1, which could reduce visibility and worsen travel conditions. The IMD has advised residents and travellers to remain cautious and take necessary precautions, especially in snow-affected regions, where road blockages and disruptions are expected.
Himachal seeks free land transfer, grant-in-aid for cantonment areas
CHANDIGARH: The process of bringing six cantonment areas in Himachal Pradesh under municipalities has hit a roadblock. The state government has requested the Union Ministry of Defence (MoD) to transfer civilian area land along with its title rights free of cost to the state during the proposed excision of these cantonment boards. Additionally, it has demanded a special grant-in-aid from the Centre to cover establishment expenses. The move follows a new condition introduced by the ministry, stipulating that the land ownership rights would remain with the Union government even after transferring assets and liabilities from the army to the state governments. Sources revealed that Principal Secretary, Urban Development, Devesh Kumar, wrote to the Director, Defence Estates, Western Command, Yogesh Kumar, on November 27. The letter pointed out that the central government is only transferring the proprietary rights of the land to the state government for providing civic amenities and municipal services in the excised areas without transferring title rights. A copy of the letter, accessed by this newspaper, stated, In this context, on perusal of the guiding principles for excision of civil areas from cantonments and their merger with adjoining state municipalities issued by the Government of India, it seems that the Government of India is only transferring the proprietary rights to the state government over the assets for providing civic amenities and municipal services in the excised area without transferring the title rights over the land to the state government. You would agree that land is a basic factor for the socio-economic development of any area and, in the case concerned, due to rapid urbanisation in and around the cantonment boards, the ownership of land with MoD (GoI) may impede the development of social infrastructure (such as schools, anganwadis, hospitals). In addition, the laying of systems for better sanitation, drinking water, roads, and paths would also make the implementation process cumbersome. The letter further emphasised the need for full implementation of central and state-sponsored schemes for the welfare of civilians residing in these cantonments. It stated, The cantonment boards in the present scenario need the full-throttle application of the central and state-sponsored schemes for the welfare of the civilians residing in these cantonment boards, which requires the transferring of ownership over the built-up (except military stations) and vacant land to the state government, free of cost, on the analogy of cantonment board-khas Yol (Dharamsala) in the year 2023. Additionally, the state government highlighted the need for a special grant-in-aid from the Union Government to manage the establishment expenses, as the liabilities of the cantonment boards amount to Rs 30 crore annuallysix times higher than their revenue generation of Rs 5 crore. The letter also stressed the necessity of assessing the geotechnical feasibility before finalising timelines for separating assets. It stated that providing accessibility to military stations, alternate access to civilian areas, and joint civic amenitiesespecially in Jutogh and Dalhousie cantonmentsneeded careful planning. This correspondence was in response to a letter sent by the MoD to the Himachal Chief Secretary on July 5, asking for feedback on the proposed excision. Earlier, on June 25, the ministry had introduced the condition that land ownership rights would remain with the Union government even after transferring assets and liabilities to the state governments. This marked a shift from the ministrys earlier stance, under which proprietary rights over all assets in excised areas were to be transferred to state governments and municipalities free of cost. Himachal Pradesh has six cantonment boardsKasauli, Dagshai, and Subathu in Solan district; Jutogh in Shimla district; and Bakloh and Dalhousie in Chamba district. The separation of civil and army areas within these cantonments has been a longstanding demand of locals, as they lack ownership rights and are excluded from state-sponsored welfare schemes. Notably, on April 28 last year, Khas Yol Cantonment Board in Kangra district became the first in the country to be de-notified. Its civil area was excised from the cantonment and merged with the local panchayat body.
North India continues to reel under cold wave conditions; no 'white Christmas' in Srinagar, Shimla
Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 22.4 degrees Celsius on Christmas Day, two notches above the season's average. The minimum temperature in the national capital was recorded at 8.4 degrees Celsius, 1.5 notches below normal.
North India continues to reel under cold wave conditions; no white Christmas in Srinagar, Shimla
NEW DELHI, Dec 25 : North India continued to reel under severe cold wave conditions on Wednesday though tourists in favourite destinations such as Srinagar and Shimla remained deprived of witnessing a white Christmas. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 7.3 degrees Celsius while Tabo in the Lahaul and Spiti district was the coldest place in Himachal Pradesh, recording a night temperature of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius. Cold weather conditions persisted in states like Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and parts of [] The post North India continues to reel under cold wave conditions; no white Christmas in Srinagar, Shimla appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Christmas Cheer With Snow And Shiver: North India Sees Snow, Near Zero Visibility & Road Closures
Weather Today: A maximum of 145 roads were closed in Himachal Pradesh's Shimla, followed by 25 in Kullu and 20 in Mandi districts.
Tourists Get Disappointed After Midnight Christmas Prayers At Shimla Church Gets Cancelled
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, witnessed a wave of disappointment among tourists on Christmas Eve when the much-anticipated midnight prayers at Christ Church were unexpectedly cancelled on Tuesday.
Tourists in Shimla on Christmas Eve were left disheartened when the anticipated midnight prayers at Christ Church were unexpectedly cancelled. Visitors, who had planned their trips around this event, were not informed beforehand and only learned of the cancellation upon arriving at the church.
Drone visuals of snow-covered mountains in Himachal Pradesh's Shimla, watch!
Snowfall in Himachal leads to closure of 177 roads, Shimla hotel room occupancy rises to 70 pc
Shimla, Dec 24: At least 177 roads, including three national highways, were closed in Himachal Pradesh following snowfall in several districts, officials said on Tuesday. Snowfall was recorded in the Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti and the higher reaches of Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Chamba and Sirmaur districts. A second consecutive day of snowfall has led to an increase in tourist inflow amid hope on a white Christmas. Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders Association president MK Seth told PTI that hotel occupancy [] The post Snowfall in Himachal leads to closure of 177 roads, Shimla hotel room occupancy rises to 70 pc appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
1,500 vehicles stranded near Atal Tunnel amid heavy snowfall in Himachal; all tourists rescued
CHANDIGARH: Due to heavy snowfall, around 1,500 vehicles were stranded between Solang and the Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway in Himachal Pradesh. Rescue operations have been successfully completed, with all tourists evacuated. As of today, 174 roads, including three national highways, remain blocked in the state due to icy road surface conditions. Sources reported that a fresh spell of heavy snowfall in Manali yesterday left 1,500 vehicles stuck, stranding tourists for hours at Dhundi and at both the north and south portals of the Atal Tunnel. With a long traffic jam worsening the situation, the state police launched a rescue operation, shifting all tourists to safer locations. The rescue teams worked tirelessly throughout the night, assisting drivers in navigating their vehicles and ensuring the safety of all passengers. Most of the stranded vehicles were returned to Manali from the Lahaul side by late night. The rescue operation started at 2 PM yesterday and completed at 10 AM today, said a senior police official. It is learnt that most of the stranded vehicles were tourist cars, many of which were not equipped for snowy road conditions. Civil authorities, along with police officials from the district administration, were present at the site to coordinate rescue efforts. Authorities have advised tourists to travel in 4x4 vehicles designed for snowy terrains and equipped with snow chains for better traction. According to data from the state emergency operation centre, the total number of roads blocked in the hill state as of today stands at 174, including three national highways. Of these, 89 roads are blocked in Shimla district, 44 in Kinnaur, 25 in Mandi, two national highways in Kullu, one in Lahaul and Spiti, six roads in Kangra, three in Una, and one in Chamba district. All roads have been closed due to icy surface conditions. Earlier, Shimla was blanketed in a pristine sheet of snow, bringing hope and joy to the city. The snowfall, which began after a two-week gap since the first snowfall on 8 December, has not only delighted visitors but also rejuvenated the spirits of the local tourism industry, which has been struggling to recover from losses inflicted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Himachal Snowstorm: Over 1,000 vehicles stranded, 700 tourists rescued amid blizzard in Manali
Himachal Pradesh witnessed contrasting scenes as heavy snowfall in Manali caused massive traffic disruptions, leaving around 1,000 vehicles stuck and 700 tourists rescued by authorities. Meanwhile, Shimla, adorned in fresh snow, enjoyed a surge in tourism, with visitors extending their stays to soak in the wintry charm. The snowfall has reignited hopes for the local tourism industry, offering a much-needed boost after years of pandemic-related struggles. Tourists described their experience as once-in-a-lifetime.
Manali Snowstorm | Snowstorm paralyzes Manali; Over 100 Vehicles Stuck, Almost 700 Evacuated
A new wave of snowfall has transformed Shimla and Manali into gorgeous winter wonderlands, bringing swarms of tourists eager to experience the icy splendor. However, the season's greatest snowfall has caused considerable difficulties in Manali, leaving over 1,000 vehicles trapped between Solang Nala and the Atal Tunnel. n18oc_breaking-newsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Day temperatures drop sharply in North India; intense cold wave persists in Kashmir
NEW DELHI: Day temperatures dropped sharply in several areas of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh after light rain hit parts of north India on Monday, even as intense cold wave conditions persisted in Kashmir with mercury dipping several degrees below freezing point. In Himachal Pradesh, Shimla and nearby areas also witnessed light snowfall which led to the closure of 30 roads in the state. People in the national capital woke up to a drizzle and fog with the minimum temperature settling at 8.6 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season's average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The maximum temperatures in Haryana and Punjab witnessed a sharp dip as rain lashed many parts the two states. According to the Met office, Chandigarh, which received light rain during the day, recorded a maximum temperature of 13.7 degrees Celsius, down six notches against normal. In Haryana, Ambala recorded a maximum temperature of 13.2 degrees Celsius, down six notches against normal while Hisar also had a cold day at a high of 14.1 degrees. High altitude areas in Uttarakhand including the famous Himalayan temples received fresh snowfall and icy winds sweeping across the state. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri and Hemkund Sahib in Garhwal Himalayas and Munsiyari in Kumaon region received fresh snowfall intensifying cold throughout the state. The sky remained overcast throughout the day at many places including Dehradun which also received a drizzle. Mussoorie, Dhanolti and Chakrata also received snowfall, much to the delight of tourists. Temperatures dropped sharply. People were seen sitting around bonfires along the roadside to warm themselves. VIDEO | Severe cold freezes waterfalls in Uttarakhand. Visuals from Chamoli's Niti Valley. (Full video available on PTI Videos- https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/DwE2bHFrsj Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 23, 2024 Cold weather conditions also prevailed in Karnal during the day at 13.6 degrees while Sirsa recorded a high of 14.8 degrees. However, minimum temperatures hovered above normal at many places in Haryana including Hisar (10.8 degrees), Rohtak (11.8), and Gurugram (11.4). In Punjab, Patiala braved the chill recording a high of 13 degrees Celsius, which was six notches below normal. Amritsar recorded a maximum of 16.4 degrees while Ludhiana recorded a high of 14.5 degrees. The minimum temperatures at many places in Punjab hovered close to or below normal limits, with Gurdaspur reeling under severe chill at 4 degrees. In Jammu and Kashmir, the weather office asked tourists to follow the advisory issued by the traffic police in view of the sub freezing temperatures and icy conditions over roads of important higher reaches in the Kashmir valley. Snowfall in Himachal brings cheer to tourists, orange alert issued Intense cold wave conditions persisted in the valley leading to the freezing of water supply lines while a thin layer of ice covered the surface of several water bodies. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday night, rising by nearly four degrees from the previous night, the meteorological office said. Pahalgam, the base camp for annual Amarnath Yatra in South Kashmir, registered a minimum temperature of minus 5 degrees Celsius, almost unchanged from the previous night, it said. The Met office has predicted a dip of two to three degrees in minimum temperatures over the next 48 hours. Shimla, the Himachal capital, on Monday recorded the season's second light snowfall while some other parts of the state received intermittent rain and snow. The nearby tourist spots of Kufri and Narkanda and the higher reaches of Kharapathar, Chaurdhar and Chanshal South portal of the Atal tunnel, and Samdho also received snowfall. Shimla recorded 8 cm of snowfall while Kalpa recorded 7 cm. As GRAP fails, Delhi pollution strategy looks suspect A few areas in Himachal's lower hills received light intermittent rain, the Met office said. The snow led to the closure of 30 roads, including the national highways between Attari and Leh, and Khab Sangam in Kinnaur district and Gramphoo in Lahaul and Spiti district, the State Emergency Operation Centre said. The snowfall brought cheer to tourists, locals and farmers. The Met had forecast rain and snow in the mid and higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, Tuesday and Friday and Saturday. The snowfall also brought cheer to apple growers, raising hope for good yields in the upper Shimla region. Tourism stakeholders said the snowfall was also expected to boost footfall. Local hotelier Sushant Nag said occupancy was set to rise as snowfall drew tourists. However, intense cold wave persisted in the lower hills, including Una, Hamirpur, Chamba and Mandi. The Met office issued an 'orange' warning for severe cold in Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur and Mandi till Thursday. There was a marked fall in maximum temperatures. Una recorded the day temperature at 16.8 degrees Celsius. Tabo was the coldest place in the state, recording a minimum temperature of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius. Power cuts add to Jammu and Kashmir winter woes The Met office said an active western disturbance was likely to affect the western Himalayan region and adjoining plains from Friday. Light rain and snow are likely at many places on Monday and Saturday and at isolated places on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, causing a gradual fall in temperatures, it said. The high-altitude tribal areas and mountain passes continued to experience biting cold, with temperatures plummeting 14 to 18 degrees below freezing point, the Met office said. In Rajasthan, light rain, triggered by a western disturbance, hit several parts of the state over the past 24 hours, accompanied by dense fog at some places, the Met office said. Rainfall ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm was logged in several areas including Ganganagar, Churu, Bikaner, Anupgarh, Pilani (Jhunjhunu), it said. Fog prevailed at many places of western Rajasthan with Alwar recording the lowest minimum temperature at 7.4 degrees Celsius. A fresh western disturbance is expected to become active on Thursday and Friday and its effect will be seen in Udaipur, Kota, Ajmer and Bharatpur divisions, the weather office said.
Himachal Pradesh: Snow in Shimla ahead of Christmas cheers locals, tourists; IMD issues yellow alert
Snowfall in Himachal brings cheer to tourists, orange alert issued
CHANDIGARH: The second light snowfall of the season has brought cheers to the local people and the tourists visiting Shmila, Kullu-Manali, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts on Monday. An orange alert has been issued by the meteorological department in Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur and Mandi districts for four days beginning Monday. The met department has also predicted light rain and snowfall at a few places in the mid and higher hills till Thursday. The light snow started in the morning at some places in the capital of the hill state and soon it turned heavy. The tourists who are in the hill town for Christmas were delighted and were seen dancing in the snow. Also tourists spots of Kufri and Narkanda besides higher reaches including Kharapathar, Chaurdhar and Chanshal witnessed snowfall. There was moderate snowfall at many places in the districts of, Kullu-Manali, Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti. Meanwhile, the lower regions of both the districts are witnessing light drizzling. As per the weather department, snow is likely to continue in Shimla and adjoining areas in the next few hours. The weather department has forecast a cold wave at many places in the state with rain and snow in mid and higher reaches on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. A yellow warning for dense fog over parts of the Bakra Dam reservoir area and Balh valley in Mandi has been issued from Tuesday to Thursday and thick ground frost is expected in isolated parts of the lower hills during this period as per IMD. In Mandi it was cloudy throughout the day with temperatures dropping drastically. Tabo was coldest in the state at minus 10.6 degrees Celsius while Sumdo, Kusumseri and Kalpa recorded minus 5.3 degrees Celsius, minus 3.7 degrees Celsius and minus 2.5 degrees Celsius, respectively. The fresh snowfall in the upper regions is expected to attract more tourists, particularly those looking to indulge in winter sports and enjoy the picturesque snow-clad mountains. The hoteliers in Kullu-Manali and Shimla who have been struggling with a sluggish season are pinning their hopes on the snow to kick start tourism. As snowfall intensifies, locals and the hospitality industry anticipate a boost in the number of visitors, which could bring in significant economic benefits. Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders Association president M K Seth said that that there are heavy bookings for Christmas and over 30 percent advance booking for New Year.
Shimla Beauty-Rubina Dilaik Shines In Her Beautiful Gown As She Walks Through An Event | N18S
The Gorgeous Shimla Beauty-Rubina Dilaik Shines In Her Beautiful Gown As She Walks Through An Event. n18oc_shortsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Shimla: Himachal Pradeshs capital, Shimla, on Monday witnessed the second light snowfall of the season, bringing cheer to tourists, locals and farmers. Snowfall was also occurred in nearby tourists spots of Kufri and Narkanda besides higher reaches including Kharapathar, Chaurdhar and Chanshal, the weather officer said. Also ReadIn first in many decades, Shimla sees seasons Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
President Droupadi Murmu arrives in Telangana for five-day visit
Hyderabad : President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Telangana on Tuesday for a five-day visit. Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, and senior officials welcomed her at the Air Force Station in Hakimpet. Earlier in the day, the President attended the first convocation of AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) at Mangalagiri in Andhra Pradesh. During her visit to Telangana from December 17-21, the President will stay at Rashtrapati Nilayam, one of the Presidential Retreats. On December 18, she will inaugurate and lay the foundation for various initiatives at Rashtrapati Nilayam in Bolarum, Secunderabad. On December 20, she will present the President's Colours to the College of Defence Management in Secunderabad. Later that evening, she will host an At Home Reception at Rashtrapati Nilayam for state dignitaries, leading citizens, and academics, among others, an official release stated on Monday. The President visits Rashtrapati Nilayam at least once a year to conduct official business. The locations of the 'Retreat Building' in Shimla and 'Rashtrapati Nilayam' in Hyderabad, as Presidential Retreats, highlight the integrative role of the Office of the President of India in the country. These retreats, located in the north and south, symbolise India's unity and its diverse cultures and people. Located in Bolarum, the Rashtrapati Nilayam building was taken over from the Nizam of Hyderabad after India gained independence and handed over to the President's Secretariat. Constructed in 1860, the building spans 90 acres and has 11 rooms, including a dining hall, cinema hall, and morning room.
Himachal contemplating Rs 500 crore project for apple horticulture rejuvenation
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh government is contemplating to formulate Rs 500 crore dedicated project for the rejuvenation of apple horticulture, this project would be implemented for five years and will focus on promoting high-density plantations to enhance farmer's incomes and strengthen the rural economy. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu chaired a review meeting to evaluate the progress of various schemes implemented by the Horticulture Department here in Shimla. Stressing the importance of diversification in horticulture CM Sukhu said that there was a need to develop improved storage and marketing systems to ensure fair prices for farmers and horticulturists. He said that the government was planning to establish modern cold storage facilities at the district level which would provide much-needed support to horticulturists. Apart from this to bolster the economy of farmers while creating self-employment opportunities the government was working on setting up a potato processing unit in Una district. During the meeting, he directed the department to prioritize Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) under Mandi Mediation to maximize benefits for farmers and horticulturists. He said that the state government was also contemplating formulating Rs. 500-crore dedicated project for the rejuvenation of apple horticulture. This project would be implemented for five years and it will focus on promoting high-density plantations to enhance farmer's incomes and strengthen the rural economy. Sukhu reviewed the achievements of various state horticulture schemes during the financial years 2023-24 and 2024-25. Under the Horticulture Development Scheme, Rs. 12.84 crore was spent on power tillers and sprayers, benefitting 4,244 horticulturists. In the current financial year, Rs. 9 crore has been utilized so far, benefiting 3,156 gardeners. Similarly, in the Anti-Hail Net Scheme, Rs. 14.45 crore was spent last year benefitting 1,767 people, while during this financial year, Rs. 10.3 crore has been spent so far benefitting 1,223 people. Additionally, Rs. 11 crore was utilized under the Himachal Pushp Kranti Yojana in 2023-24, providing benefits to 750 people. The universal carton system which was a packaging initiative by the state government had been introduced a few months back and had transformed the way apples are packaged, transported, and marketed, leading to reduced losses and increased profits for orchardists across the state.
Temperatures drop in Delhi, Punjab; slight respite from cold for Kashmir
NEW DELHI: Cold weather conditions persisted in parts of north and west India on Sunday with the mercury dropping several notches in Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan. Kashmir and the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh received some respite from the intense cold as minimum temperatures rose. The respite for Kashmir is likely to be short-lived as the meteorological department has predicted a cold wave in parts of the valley over the next three days. Delhi's minimum temperature dropped to 4.9 degrees Celsius, 3.1 notches below normal, but cold wave conditions did not prevail, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The mercury settled at a low of 8 degrees Celsius in the city on Saturday. The capital recorded a maximum temperature of 23.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday, 0.2 notches below normal, the IMD said. The weather department has forecast moderate fog in Delhi on Monday. The minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to settle at 5 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius respectively. Punjab and Haryana also remained in the grip of cold weather conditions with Faridkot recording the lowest temperature in the region at 1 degree Celsius, according to the meteorological department. Punjab's Gurdaspur and Bathinda recorded a minimum temperature of 2 degrees Celsius and 4.6 degrees Celsius respectively at night, it said. The mercury settled at a low of 3.5 degrees Celsius in Pathankot, 3.9 degrees Celsius in Amritsar, 6.8 degrees Celsius in Ludhiana and 3.8 degrees Celsius in Patiala. In Haryana, Hisar shivered at 1.7 degrees Celsius and Narnaul recorded a minimum temperature of 3 degrees Celsius. Bhiwani recorded a low of 4 degrees Celsius, Gurugram 5.6 degrees Celsius, Rohtak 5.2 degrees Celsius and Ambala 5.7 degrees Celsius. The weather office said that Chandigarh, the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded a minimum temperature of 4.8 degrees Celsius. Temperatures rose by three to five notches in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh while cold wave conditions gripped the lower hills as the weather remained dry. Tabo was the coldest place in the state at night with a low of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius and Shimla was the warmest at 12.2 degrees Celsius, 6.5 notches above normal. The adjoining resorts of Kufri and Narkanda recorded a low of 9.8 degrees Celsius and 6.4 degrees Celsius respectively. In the lower hills, Una recorded a minimum temperature of 0.2 degrees Celsius and Sundernagar 0.6 degrees Celsius. The local meteorological office has issued a 'yellow' warning for cold wave at isolated places in the lower hills and plains till Thursday and predicted dry weather in the state over the next seven days. Cold wave conditions will prevail in Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and parts of Kangra districts, the weather office said. There was no significant change in maximum temperatures in Himachal Pradesh. Solan was the hottest during the day at 24.7 degrees Celsius followed by Shimla at 19 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal. Kashmir saw a slight respite from intense cold wave conditions as minimum temperatures rose across the valley, though they remained below the freezing point. The summer capital of Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.4 degrees Celsius, an improvement from minus 4.6 degrees Celsius the previous night, the meteorological department said. Gulmarg, a tourist destination popular for skiing, registered a minimum temperature of 3.8 degrees Celsius -- a rise of nearly four notches from the night before. Pahalgam, the base camp for the Amarnath Yatra, logged a low of minus 4.8 degrees Celsius, three notches higher than the previous night. Konibal, a hamlet on the outskirts of Pampore town, was the coldest place in the valley with the mercury settling at a low of minus 5.2 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature was minus 4 degrees Celsius in Qazigund, 3.7 degrees Celsius in Kupwara and 2.8 degrees Celsius in Kokernag. According to the meteorological office, the weather in the valley is likely to remain mainly dry till December 21. Minimum temperatures are predicted to drop and a cold wave is likely over many stations during the next three days, the weather office said. In Rajasthan, cold wave conditions prevailed in most parts and Fatehpur recorded sub-zero temperatures for the third consecutive day on Sunday. According to the meteorological department, the minimum temperature in Fatehpur settled at minus 1.2 degrees Celsius. Churu recorded a minimum temperature of 1.6 degrees Celsius; Bhilwara 2.2 degrees Celsius; Sangaria, Pilani and Sirohi 2.6 degrees Celsius; Chittorgarh 3.2 degrees Celsius and Alwar 4 degrees Celsius. The mercury settled below 10 degrees Celsius at several other places in the state.
'Jungli murga' on dinner menu lands Himachal CM Sukhu in a soup
A video showed Himachal CM Sukhu seemingly offering endangered Grey Junglefowl to associates. BJP demanded an apology. Sukhu denied consuming the dish, citing health reasons. He stated non-veg consumption is common in villages. The incident occurred during a dinner in Shimla with officials. Hunting and eating the bird is reportedly common in rural areas, despite its endangered status.
Political slugfest over jungle fowl in Himachal after samosa controversy
CHANDIGARH: Another controversy has hit the Congress-led Himachal Pradesh Government, as Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu allegedly encouraged his associates to eat grey jungle fowl (jungli murga) which is an endangered species at Kupvi village in the Chopal area of the Shimla district, where the CM spent last night with the villagers. Thus the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanded an apology and action against those responsible, but Sukhu said Opposition has no issues left to raise. Sources said that Chief Minister Sukhu attended a dinner in this village where the menu included food with wild chicken, bichu booti (a local herb), and slices of bread made from maize and wheat. Sukhu did not eat chicken but state health minister Col (Retd) Dhani Ram Shandil ate it as he and other guests were served. The incident snowballed into a political controversy following a purported viral video showing Sukhu's remarks about the dish, potentially breaching wildlife protection laws. As one can hear the CM saying that he does not eat it, he asked the villagers to serve it to his ministerial colleague Shandil the state Health minister, seated next to him and others while sitting on the floor and eating with everyone. The BJP leaders shared the purported video of the dinner and pointed out that item number 12 in the dinner was Junglee Murga or Jungle Fowl. Leader of Opposition and former chief minister Jairam Thakur accused the CM of not only having the dish featured on the dinner menu but also encouraging his associates to eat it. He alleged that jungle fowl a protected bird species was served as part of the meal to CM Sukhu. Sharing a purported video of the dinner on social media platform X, he accused the state government of organizing picnics at the expense of the state exchequer. People who consume protected species of wild chicken are penalized with fines and jail time. However, the Chief Minister gets menus printed to serve chicken and then enjoys watching his ministers relish it right in front of him. Is this what you call a system change? #Government_On_Village_Picnic #2_Years_of_System_Deterioration, he said in the post. Thakur said that those who had objections to serving of phulkas at the Jan Manch programme during the BJP rule are today relishing jungle murga. Another BJP leader Chetan Bragta said that the CM should apologize. Jungli Murga (Grey Jungle fowl) is an endangered species listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act 2022. Hunting and eating this species is illegal, he said. CM Sukhu said that eating non-vegetarian food is a way of life in villages and accused the opposition leaders of making an issue out of it. The villagers served the chicken for dinner, but I refused as I do not eat it and now Jai Ram Thakur is making an issue out of it, he said and emphasized his health-motivated decision to avoid non-vegetarian and oily foods. I do not eat oily and non-vegetarian food due to health reasons, said Sukhu and added that opposition leaders have no real issue and are merely trying to tarnish the image of the villagers. This new controversy comes close on the heels of the samosa controversy , where an inquiry had been ordered by the CID wing of the police to trace the missing samosas during a function attended by the Chief Minister. Despite being an endangered species, hunting and eating the Grey Junglefowl, which is considered delicious, is reportedly a common practice in rural areas of the state, particularly during the winter months.
Delhi colder than Shimla: Temperature in the capital drops to three-year low of 4.5C
Delhi shivered as temperatures plummeted to a three-year low of 4.5C. Cold winds from the Himalayas brought cold wave conditions. Some areas recorded even lower temperatures. The city was colder than hill stations like Shimla and Mussoorie. The cold wave is expected to persist for a few days. Temperatures may rise slightly after the weekend.
Himachal turns white: Season's first snowfall brings joy to tourists
Shimla and nearby regions witnessed season's first snowfall, delighting tourists but disrupting roads, with 15 closures, power outages, and rescue operations. Temperatures plunged as snowfall eased water deficit.
Temperature dips to 4 degree Celsius in National Capital, thin layer of fog covers multiple cities
Delhi shivered at 4.5C on Thursday, with clear skies and diminishing smog expected. Cold wave conditions are predicted across North India, including Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. Meanwhile, sub-freezing temperatures continue to grip Kashmir, impacting daily life, with Srinagar reaching -3C. Shimla also faces challenging icy conditions after recent snowfall.
Teacher Dead As Scorpio Skids Off Snow-Covered Road In Himachal Pradesh's Sirmaur
The four passengers in the car were returning to their home in Shimla when the car got stuck in the snow. While attempting to push it free, the vehicle slipped and fell into the gorge
Three killed, 15 injured as bus falls into gorge in Himachal's Kullu
SHIMLA: A private bus with over 30 passengers on board fell into a gorge in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district on Tuesday, killing three people and seriously injuring 15 others, police said. The bus driver among the three died when the bus, on its way to Kullu's Anni from Karsog, fell into a gorge near Shawad village, they said. Anni subdivision is on the border of Kullu and Shimla district. The police and locals immediately reached the spot and started the rescue operations. Of the 15 injured, 11 in critical condition were rushed to IGMC Shimla while the others were sent to Rampur Hospital, according to officials. The bus fell about 120 metres down the hill before crashing and got completely damaged. The deceased have been identified as bus driver Dinanath, a Mandi resident, Keshav Ram and Gulshan from Kullu, the official said. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri have expressed grief over the loss of lived in the accident and directed the district administration to extend every possible support to the affected families and ensure proper medical assistance to the injured. Conveying their condolences, they prayed for the peace of the departed souls and strength to the bereaved family members to bear this irreparable loss, a statement issued here said.
Prez Murmu to undertake sojourn at Rashtrapati Nilayam in Hyderabad from Dec 17-21
Hyderabad: President Droupadi Murmu will undertake a sojourn at the Rashtrapati Nilayam here, one of the Presidential Retreats, from December 17 to 21. Telangana Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari, who held a meeting with officials on Tuesday, directed them to work in close coordination and make foolproof arrangements for the President's visit. The forest department officials were told to depute snake catchers and complete the task of catching snakes well in advance at the Rashtrapati Nilayam. The Chief Secretary directed that a snake catching team be stationed round the clock at the Nilayam, an official release said. Similarly, special teams should be deputed to deal with the monkey menace in and around the Nilayam in coordination with Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). The GHMC was directed to ensure that bee catching is done well in advance, it said. The Chief Secretary gave directives to several government departments, including health, municipal administration and police, on the arrangements. The President of India visits the Rashtrapati Nilayam and stays there at least once a year and conducts official business from the Nilayam. The location of 'The Retreat Building' in Shimla and the 'Rashtrapati Nilayam' in Hyderabad (Presidential Retreats) are indicative of the integrative role of the Office of the President of India in the country. These locations, one in the north and another in the south, symbolise the country's unity and the unity of diverse cultures and people. Located at Bolarum in the city, the Rashtrapati Nilayam building was taken over from the Nizam of Hyderabad after India attained independence and handed over to the President's Secretariat. Constructed during 1860, the building has a total land area of 90 acres. A single storied building, it contains in its premises 11 rooms. It also has a dining hall, cinema hall, morning room, dining room and others.
3 killed, 15 injured as bus falls into gorge in Himachal
Shimla: A private bus with over 30 passengers on board fell into a gorge in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district on Tuesday, killing three people and injuring 15 others, police said. The bus driver among three died when the bus, on its way to Kullu's Anni from Karsog, fell into a gorge near Shakdler village, they said. The police and locals immediately reached the spot and started the rescue operations. Of the 15 injured, 10 in critical condition were rushed to IGMC Shimla while the others were sent to Rampur hospital, according to officials. The bus was torn into pieces due to the accident and its parts were scattered everywhere.
As the year ends, winter travel is heating up dating apps with spike in matches
For Indians, winter is not only about sweaters and hot cocoa- it's the favorite season for the wanderlust and travel enthusiasts, and India's No.1 dating app, QuackQuack's, consumer study shows a record high matches induced by the same love for traveling this winter. Indians are not only busy packing their bags for the weekend getaway; they are busy matching with their travel buddies on dating apps. The app's recent survey of 10,000 active users from metros, suburbs, and rural areas of India revealed a fascinating new trend where travel and romance have intertwined. It was conducted between November 25 and December 5 through online questionnaires and consumer behavior observation. Participants ranged between 25 and 35 and belonged to various professional fields- IT, healthcare and medicine, education, sales and marketing, law and order, finance, and a portion of users in between jobs. Picture courtesy : By arrangement QuackQuack's Founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, commented, Traveling and visiting new places open up a more organic way for people to meet, especially at a low-pressure setting. This wanderlust-induced matching is not new, but the rate of it has definitely increased this year and more among the Millennials than any other age group. Travel meets romance Every winter, tourist places in India see a record-breaking number of travelers, and this onset of the winter holidays is no different. What's different is how Indians' love for traveling is changing the matching game significantly. 28% of respondents revealed that they are more inclined to match with a user who mentions a passion for traveling, specifically this time of the year. Surprisingly, 9% of these daters particularly matched with people from specific areas to discuss and get help creating an itinerary. Prakash from South Delhi said, I matched with a very kind person from the Southern part of India whose Bio showcased that she has traveled extensively. One thing, she is beautiful, but there was another agenda- I wanted to visit the South and wanted her to recommend some offbeat locations. Plus, we chatted and connected so well over this that we ended up meeting each other once I went there. Picture Courtesy : By arrangement Destination-Matching From the snow-capped mountains of Shimla to the serene beaches of Goa, if there's one thing that has been buzzing more than the travelers, it is dating apps. QuackQuack reports an increase in match rate in the travel-favorite places, with Goa and Uttarakhand stealing the top spots. 31% of male users from Tier 1 and 2 cities disclosed matching with someone on their recent journey, and 3 in 5 people went ahead and met their match in person during the trip. Harsh, an IT professional from Amritsar, said, I met a woman while visiting Manali. We ended up exploring the place together. It was great while it lasted, and the expiry date made it more romantic, I suppose. Travel compatibility is the new green flag. Travel style and preference have become a key compatibility element this season. Beach or mountains, budget or luxury, quick or laidback, QuackQuack's survey reveals users determining matches based on these differences and similarities since the onset of winter. 28% of women commented that they had paused conversation with matches due to clashing travel tastes. Anjali from Pune, a 27-year-old CA, said, I love to splurge a little when I travel, so when I matched with a guy who was too fixated on budget-friendly, I knew things wouldn't get far with him. And since I am looking for a serious relationship, I don't think committing to someone with such a starkly different travel style is wise. 9% of daters between 32 and 35 looking for a serious match shared discussing their must visit spots to potential partners for long-term compatibility evaluation.
Shimla Sees Its First December Snow In 20 Years, Lowest Temperature Hits 2.5 Degrees Celsius
Winter has come early to Shimla with its first snowfall in over two decades, and tourists can't get enough of the white views - watch the videos inside.
Himachal receives seasons first snowfall, 87 roads closed
Shimla, Dec 9: Himachal Pradesh witnessed its first snowfall of the season which led to the closure of at least 87 roads in the state, including Atari-Leh National Highway 3 near Manalis Rohtang Pass, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) said. A total of 58 roads were closed in Shimla, followed by 17 in Kinnaur, six in Kangra, two in Lahaul and Spiti, one each in Kullu and Chamba districts. Some parts of Himachal suffered power outrages as 457 transformers [] The post Himachal receives seasons first snowfall, 87 roads closed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Shimla and the adjoining Kufri and Fagu received the season's first snowfall last night, covering fields and roads with a thin white blanket.
Photo: Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir
Mumbai: Shimla and the adjoining tourist resort towns of Kufri and Fagu received the seasons first snow on Sunday while continuing intermittent snowfall in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradeshs tribal Lahaul and Spiti district intensified cold conditions in the adjoining valleys. A thin layer of snow covered Lahaul, affecting traffic as slippery road conditions Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
In Decades, Shimla Sees Season's First Snowfall In Early December
In a first in many decades, the Himachal Pradesh capital and its nearby tourist resorts on Sunday evening experienced the season's first snowfall in early December, with the hospitality industry eyeing a surge of tourists.
Shimla, Kasauli receive season's first snow, watch video here
Himachal Pradesh's tribal Lahaul and Spiti district intensified cold conditions in the adjoining valleys.
In first in many decades, Shimla sees seasons first snowfall in early December
Shimla: In a first in many decades, the Himachal Pradesh capital and its nearby tourist resorts on Sunday evening experienced the seasons first snowfall in early December, with the hospitality industry eyeing a surge of tourists. Shimla and its nearby areas have experienced light snowfall and this was the seasons first snowfall in Shimla town, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
3 dead, 1 injured after car plunges into ravine in Shimla
Shimla: Three people were killed and one injured after the car they were travelling in plunged into a ravine in the Rampur subdivision here, police said on Tuesday. The deceased have been identified as Mintu Chauhan (27), his wife Sheetal Chauhan (28) and Alok Sharma (24), while Arun Chauhan (23) sustained injuries in the accident. All four victims belong to Nankhari tehsil, said Superintendent of Police (SP) Shimla, Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi. The accident occurred on Monday night near Bhadrash, about 127 kilometers from Shimla, when Mintu, who was driving, lost control of the vehicle, causing it to plunge into the ravine, Gandhi said. A team from Rampur police station reached the scene shortly, recovered the bodies of the deceased and rescued the injured, who is being treated at Mahatma Gandhi Medical Services Complex in Khaneri. The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem and an investigation is currently underway, the SP said.
Himachal to set up modern libraries, 493 planned in first: CM
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh plans to establish 493 modern libraries at various levels with an estimated cost of Rs 88 crore. The state introduces ranking systems for educational institutions and new systems for recording Annual Confidential Reports. Efforts include enhancing administrative powers for principals and modernizing medical and primary education.
Trucks allowed on The Ridge triggers uproar in Shimla
CHANDIGARH: Controversies do not seem to end for the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, as loaded trucks have recently seen on the 110-year-old The Ridge in Shimla, a zone where vehicles are prohibited. This prompted the former deputy mayor to file a complaint with the police. Locals were left fuming after a video went viral on social media in which two loaded trucks, parked right next to the historic church in Shimla on The Ridge could be seen. Former deputy mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation and CPM leader Tikender Singh Panwar has filed a police complaint demanding action against the vehicle owners and officials for allowing vehicles and installation of temporary stalls at The Ridge. Panwar on Saturday called for the registration of an FIR. The Ridge is located in the heart of Shimla and houses Christ Church, a neo-Gothic structure built in 1844 and a Tudorbethan-styled library building constructed in 1910, besides statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Y S Parmar, the first chief minister of Himachal Pradesh.
Manish Tewari | Are India-China buffer zones new threat to our sovereignty?
The 1959 Chinese claim line continues to be a central issue in the ongoing India-China border dispute. Rooted in historical negotiations and shaped by geopolitical dynamics, this claim line underscores Chinas strategic push to assert control over contested regions. Analyzing its origins, impact, and role in recent disengagement talks is essential to understanding the challenges to Indias territorial integrity and its broader security concerns. Tracing the Roots of the 1959 Chinese Claim Line: The India-China border dispute has its origins in the un-demarcated border between the erstwhile princely state of Jammu & Kashmir and Tibet that was quasi-independent under the loose suzerainty of China after the collapse of the Qing dynasty in 1911. Despite repeated attempts by the British to demarcate the border and the frontier going back to the Johnson-Ardegh Line of 1867, foreign office line of 1873, MacCartney-MacDonald Line of 1899 and the 1914 Shimla Convention, where British India, Tibet and China sought to define their territorial boundaries, the borders in the western, central and eastern sectors remained undefined. Though the McMahon Line established the eastern sector boundary in 1914 in Shimla, China initialled the agreement, but later refused to ratify it, arguing that Tibet lacked the sovereignty to negotiate. India adopted the McMahon Line as its northeastern boundary upon gaining independence in 1950. Tensions escalated in January 1959 when Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai formally contested the McMahon Line in a letter to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Calling it a colonial imposition, Zhou also laid claim to Aksai Chin in the western sector, where China had constructed the Xinjiang-Tibet highway. This was a defining moment as Chinese maps began to reflect these claims, directly challenging India's sovereignty. Zhou proposed mutual withdrawals to reduce tensions, retreating from the McMahon Line in the east and from areas under actual control in the west. However, Nehru rejected these proposals, recognising them as attempts to legitimise Chinese territorial gains, particularly in Aksai Chin. This rejection further strained relations, eventually leading to the 1962 Sino-Indian War, during which China advanced to its 1959 claim line before declaring a unilateral ceasefire. The 1959 Claim Line and Its Modern-Day Implications: India has consistently rejected the 1959 Chinese claim line, seeing it as an attempt to undermine its territorial sovereignty. Yet, this contentious line continues to surface in diplomatic discussions, especially during recent disengagement talks following the 2020 Galwan Valley standoff. That clash, which occurred 800 metres west of their own claim line, underscored Chinas intent to assert control over disputed territories. Recent disengagement agreements in areas like the Depsang Plains and Charding La near Demchok have reignited concerns about potential concessions to Chinese claims. On October 22, 2024, Indian and Chinese forces began withdrawing from these areas, with officials confirming a return to pre-2020 positions and the restoration of patrolling rights. However, the lack of transparency around the terms of these agreements has raised fears that India may have inadvertently ceded ground to align with the 1959 claim line of China. Strategic Significance of Depsang Plains and Charding La: The Depsang plains hold immense strategic value as they offer access to the Aksai Chin plateau. Before 2020, Indian patrols regularly reached patrolling points (PPs) 10 to 13, but a Chinese blockade severely restricted this movement. The recent disengagement agreement reportedly restores these patrolling rights, yet concerns linger about whether Chinese patrols might gain access near the critical Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DSDBO) Road, a key route linking India to Aksai Chin. Allowing such access could tacitly validate Chinas territorial claims. At Charding La, the disengagement process appears to restore the pre-2020 status quo. However, doubts remain about whether the arrangement sufficiently protects Indias broader strategic interests, given the regions proximity to the 1959 claim line. Any concessions in this sensitive area could weaken Indias defensive position in an already tense border region. The 1959 claim line is more than a boundary proposal; it reflects Beijings broader strategy to secure control over key territories. In the western sector, it includes areas like the Bottleneck in Depsang near the vital DSDBO Road, reinforcing Chinas access to its G219 highway. In the eastern sector, it challenges Indian sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh, particularly along the McMahon Line. Buffer Zones, a Double-Edged Sword in Border Agreements: The establishment of buffer zones has emerged as a controversial aspect of recent India-China disengagement deals. Designed to prevent direct confrontations, these zones restrict military patrols on both sides. However, they have often limited Indias operational access to areas it historically controlled. In Pangong Tso, for example, the buffer zone created after the 2020 standoff bars Indian patrols between Finger 4 and Finger 8, effectively conceding strategic vantage points to Chinese control. Similarly, in the Galwan Valley, buffer zones east of PP-14 prevent Indian forces from accessing historically significant areas. Experts warn that such measures risk legitimising the 1959 Chinese claim line as the de facto boundary. Recent agreements in Depsang and Charding La avoided the creation of buffer zones, restoring patrolling rights. Yet, the lack of clarity around these deals has fueled concerns that they may still align with Chinas broader territorial goals, potentially undermining Indias long-term strategic interests. Transparency and the Need to Safeguard Sovereignty: The Indian governments approach to recent disengagement talks has faced criticism for a lack of transparency. Public trust depends on clear communication about the terms of these agreements, especially in sensitive areas. The government must assure citizens that the 1959 claim line has not been tacitly validated and that Indias territorial integrity remains intact. The shadow of the 1959 Chinese claim line looms large over India-China boundary talks. Disengagement agreements may reduce tensions, but their opaque nature has fuelled fears of unintended concessions. Restrictions on patrolling and buffer zones further complicate the issue, risking a gradual acceptance of a claim line India has consistently opposed. While diplomacy and de-escalation are crucial for resolving boundary disputes, they must not compromise Indias strategic interests. Transparent communication and accountability are vital to addressing public concerns and ensuring negotiations do not inadvertently advance Chinas territorial ambitions. As negotiations move forward, India must remain firm in rejecting the 1959 claim line and prioritise its territorial sovereignty. Transparency and informed public discourse are essential to countering Beijings calculated moves and protecting national interests. Addressing these challenges decisively is critical to ensuring Indias long-term security and strategic integrity.
The district court in Shimla dismissed the All Himachal Muslim Organisation's appeal against the Municipal Commissioner's order to demolish three unauthorized floors of the Sanjauli mosque. The court awaits a detailed order, and demolition has already begun despite appeals for delays due to labor shortages and winter weather conditions.
Shimla mosque row: Court rejects Muslim side plea against demolition order
Shimla: The district court here on Saturday dismissed an application filed by the All Himachal Muslim Organisation challenging the October 5 order of the Municipal Commissioners Court to demolish three illegally built storeys of Sanjauli mosque. Counsel of All Himachal Muslim Organisation (AHMO) Vishva Bhushan told the reporters here that their application has been rejected Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
CM Sukhu led-Himachal government in another controversy as loaded trucks on 110-year-old `The Ridge
CHANDIGARH: Controversies do not seem to end for the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government in Himachal Pradesh, as loaded trucks were recently seen on the 110-year-old The Ridge in Shimla, a zone where vehicles are prohibited. This prompted the former Deputy Mayor to file a complaint with the state police. The locals were left fuming after a video went viral on social media in which one could see two loaded trucks, parked right next to the historic church in Shimla on The Ridge. Former Deputy Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation and CPI(M) leader Tikender Singh Panwar has filed a police complaint demanding action against people and officials who allowed parking of vehicles and installation of temporary stalls at The Ridge in Shimla. Sharing two videos along with his complaint, Panwar today called for the registration of an FIR regarding the parking of two trucks and a large crane on The Ridge, a vulnerable zone where no vehicular movement is permitted. In his complaint to Shimla's Superintendent of Police, Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, Panwar demanded action against the owners of the trucks and crane, the police officials who allowed the vehicles to park in the area, as well as officials from the Shimla district administration and the Home Department for permitting social and public functions in this restricted zone. The complaint further said that functions are being held on The Ridge despite the high court's order not to organise events there. I request you to take it urgently, failing which I will be forced to knock on the doors of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh which has already decided not to allow such functions at the Ridge. Still holding these functions invites contempt of their orders, it reads. Panwar also highlighted that stalls are being set up on The Ridge, placing undue pressure on the tanks, despite a clear directive from the Himachal Pradesh High Court prohibiting any such activities in the area. He argued that The Ridge is being gradually transformed into a commercial space. Panwar urged the people of Shimla to speak out against these practices and protect the integrity of the historic site. When contacted, police confirmed that they had received the complaint. Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan yesterday removed the stalls in The Ridge area and instructed officials to find out who allowed them. There is a huge water tank under The Ridge, and such a huge structure cannot be built here as it could put pressure on the area, he said. The historic Ridge is located in the heart of Shimla and houses Christ Church, a neo-Gothic structure built in 1844 and a Tudorbethan-styled library building constructed in 1910, besides statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Y S Parmar, the first chief minister of Himachal Pradesh. There are large tanks that can hold 45 lakh litres of water were built under The Ridge during British rule. The tanks supply drinking water to households in the city. The Ridge lies in sinking zones and cracks have been developing in regular intervals since 2000. The foundation area towards Rivoli Theatre and Ice Skating Rink has been sinking. The vehicles are banned on The Ridge and only ambulances are allowed. This is the third controversy which has hit the government in the recent past after the samosa and toilet tax controversies.
Himachal CM requests Centre for special industrial package
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Government requested the Centre for a special industrial package to be provided to the state to ensure balanced regional development. Furthermore, all deputy commissioners and superintendents of police across the state have been instructed to hear public grievances twice a week in their offices. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called on Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal in New Delhi late evening on Thursday. Sukhu requested for a special industrial package to be provided to Himachal Pradesh, similar to those provided to North-eastern states and Jammu and Kashmir. He also urged the Centre to restart the previous transport subsidy scheme for hilly areas like Himachal Pradesh keeping in view high logistic costs due to rugged terrain. He said that this would help in promoting industrial production and boosting exports. He also requested for providing funds for industrial infrastructure development projects, quality testing labs and certification labs for export promotion. Sukhu also requested for releasing pending amount of capital subsidy under Industrial Development Scheme and sanctioning pending cases under the IDS at the earliest. The Union Minister Piyush Goyal assured that the issues raised would be examined and that all possible support to the state would be extended. Meanwhile, all deputy commissioners and superintendents of police across the state will hear public grievances in their offices on every Monday and Thursday. A notification has been issued by the Secretary, Administrative Reforms following the directives of CM Sukhu. As per the notification, if Monday or Thursday happens to be a public holiday, the DCs will attend to their duties on the next working day. This directive is also applicable to Superintendents of Police in all the districts. These instructions were imparted during the DC-SP's conference held in Shimla on November 7 and 8. CM Sukhu emphasised the need for timely resolution of public issues to avoid unnecessary delay in solving their grievances. As part of this commitment, the government has also launched the Sarkar Gaon Ke Dwar initiative, under which ministers will also visit the rural areas to listen to and resolve issues of the citizens. The government has also resolved over 2.5 lakh pending revenue cases through Revenue Lok Adalats relieving people from the need to visit government offices repeatedly.
CBI Arrests Two EPFO Officials In Rs 10 Lakh Bribery Case
Shimla, Nov 27: The CBI arrested two officers of the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and a consultant on Wednesday for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 10 lakh. The accused regional provident fund commissioner and enforcement officer, both posted at the EPFO-Baddi in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, and the consultant were arrested for demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 10 lakh (Rs 5 lakh in cash and an equal amount in self cheques) from the [] The post CBI Arrests Two EPFO Officials In Rs 10 Lakh Bribery Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Woman Apologies For Bullying Kashmiri Shawl Sellers
Shimla, Nov 26: A woman caught on camera bullying two shawl sellers from Kashmir for trading their wares in Himachal Pradesh apologised on Tuesday. The apology came a day after a 2.46 minute video that surfaced on social media showed her telling two Kashmiris not to come to the village and asking them to say Jai Shri Ram to prove they are Hindustani. Click Here To Join Daily Excelsior on WhatsApp And Get Latest News On Tuesday, the woman, in [] The post Woman Apologies For Bullying Kashmiri Shawl Sellers appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Youth of Himachal to be trained in drone-driven services for self-employment: CM Sukhu
CHANDIGARH: The youth of Himachal Pradesh will be trained in drone-driven services for self-employment under an initiative by the state government. Presiding over a meeting to discuss the role of National Resource Management and Agro-ecology in achieving the motto of 'Samridh Himachal-Green Himachal' in Shimla today, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated, Effective steps will be taken to make Himachal a self-reliant state by 2027 and the most prosperous by 2032. To make Himachal a Green and Clean State, the government is working towards judiciously utilizing the state's natural resources. He emphasised the role of medium and small-scale industries in creating self-employment opportunities for the youth, highlighting the government's commitment to setting up such units to strengthen the state's economy. Sukhu added that drone technology can play a crucial role in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, logistics, and the delivery of essentials such as medicines and food. He announced the government's mission-mode initiative to support drone-based enterprise development by providing technical training to drone pilots and other necessary assistance. The government plans to introduce drone courses in state Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), with a goal to create 15,000 drone-driven services in the near future. To further promote self-employment, the Chief Minister spoke about harnessing rooftop solar energy and other renewable sources. He noted that every 100 solar rooftops on homes could create jobs for two individuals, while also providing savings and earnings for households and generating revenue for the state. The government aims to bring 10 percent of the state's 16 lakh sloping roof households and buildings under the Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme on a mission mode. This initiative will allow youth to sell excess electricity back to the government, which is considering raising the purchase price of electricity and facilitating bank loans. Sukhu also highlighted tourism's contribution of 7 percent to the state's GDP, noting an increase in tourist influx each year. To establish Himachal as a green and tourist-friendly destination, the government has introduced the Rs. 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Start-up Scheme , which provides a 50 percent subsidy on the purchase of e-vehicles, enabling youth to earn their livelihood. Emphasising high-value agricultural produce, the Chief Minister shared that 2,603 farmers have adopted high-value agriculture production. Himachal has become the first state to procure natural farming produce directly from farmers, purchasing wheat at Rs. 40 per kg and maize at Rs. 30 per kg.
Woman In Himachal Pradesh Bullies Kashmiri Shawl Sellers, Video Turns Up On X
SHIMLA, Nov 25: A woman claiming to be a panchayat official was caught on camera warning two shawl sellers from Kashmir against trading their wares in Himachal Pradesh. The 2.46-minute video that surfaced on social media showed the woman telling the two Kashmiris not to come to the village and asking them to say Jai Shri Ram to prove they are Hindustani. Sharing the video on X on Monday, National Convenor of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, Nasir Khuehami, [] The post Woman In Himachal Pradesh Bullies Kashmiri Shawl Sellers, Video Turns Up On X appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Shimla HC allows 9 of 18 crisis-hit Himachal Pradesh govt hotels to run till March
Delhi pollution crisis fuels demand for CNG, BS-6 vehicles during wedding Season
New Delhi: The enforcement of Stage IV of GRAP, which bans BS-3 and BS-4 diesel vehicles, has disrupted travel and transportation, particularly for those engaged in the wedding business. The Central Pollution Control Board imposed GRAP-IV measures after Delhi's air quality index (AQI) entered the 'severe' category on Sunday. The restrictions, which came into effect at 8 AM Monday, aim to curb pollution caused by older diesel vehicles. However, the measure has had unintended consequences. Travel agencies report a sharp rise in demand for BS-6 and CNG vehicles, including cars like Ertiga, Innova, and traveller buses, as they scramble to meet commitments made before the ban. The wedding season has added to the pressure. Many vehicles were pre-booked months in advance, and with this sudden ban, we had to scramble to adjust, said Sewak Tuar, a travel agency owner. We are struggling to arrange new vehicles, the petrol, CNG, and BS-6 compliant ones, as weddings and transportation needs are being heavily affected, he added. Aryan Sinha, another travel agency owner, highlighted the growing challenges We have vehicles available for nearby trips like Amritsar, but families booking vehicles for destinations such as Manali, Mussoorie, and Rishikesh, as well as for weddings, are facing difficulties, he said. According to Sinha, wedding bookings often require 10 to 15 vehicles for multiple days. Managing this demand is challenging because they now have to ensure vehicles meet the required standards, he said. For large groups, CNG buses, traveller buses, and BS-6 compliant vehicles, especially newer models from 2020 onward, are in high demand, he told PTI. The restrictions have also impacted routine tourism as pollution prompts many families to plan trips to hill stations. Rajesh Kumar, another travel agency owner, said, This is the peak wedding season, and many families plan destination weddings or large gatherings requiring bulk bookings. Rearranging these commitments has been costly and disruptive, as we now have to rent additional vehicles or upgrade our fleet to comply with the regulations. The shortage has also caused financial strain on agencies, with many reporting losses. A large portion of our fleet comprises BS-3 and BS-4 vehicles, which are now off the roads. To accommodate the demand, we've had to rent compliant vehicles, which increases costs, Kumar added. Delhi's AQI worsened on Monday and Tuesday, crossing 450 and entering the 'severe-plus' range. While Wednesday saw a slight improvement, the AQI remains in the 'severe' range. GRAP, or Graded Response Action Plan, for Delhi-NCR, is divided into four stages of air quality -- Stage 1 for poor AQI ranging between 201 and 300, Stage 2 for very poor AQI of 301-400, Stage 3 for severe AQI of 401-450 and Stage 4 for severe plus AQI more than 450. With schools now closed due to pollution, many families are booking trips to hill stations. Dharamveer Singh from Kusha Travels, a travel agency based in Pushp Vihar, said three to four families are booking tour packages from Delhi every day, typically for trips lasting three to four days. Many families are booking trips to Manali, Mussoorie, and Shimla. Vehicles are being reserved for three to four days at a time, further adding to the shortage, Singh said. At 9 am, the national capital recorded an AQI of 376, according to the CPCB. The weather department has predicted shallow fog during the day.
Zambian student at Chandigarh university charged with murder dies by suicide in police custody
CHANDIGARH: A Zambian student from Chandigarh University allegedly murdered a Tanzanian student from the same university and died by suicide in the Punjab Police custody by hanging himself. Police sources said that 24-year-old Saviour Chikopela of Zambia on the intervening night of November 20 and 21 allegedly committed suicide in the police lock-up at the Sunny Enclave Police Post in Kharar near Chandigarh by hanging himself using thin nylon rope inside the jail bar. The police rushed him to the Kharar Civil Hospital around 12.10 am where he was declared brought dead. He was arrested yesterday at 11.38 pm on the charges of allegedly murdering another foreign student Nuru Mari hailing from Tanzania who was his batch mate. The police have remained tightlipped on the incident and even kept the gates of the police station closed on Thursday morning. A case under section 103 BNS dated November 20 has been registered at Police Station City against Saviour. Sources further said that the girl Nuru Mari was found dead in Kharar. Police investigated and found out that the alleged accused Saviour Chikopela murdered her. The police traced the CCTV footage of where Nuru lived and also spoke to the students of the African community thus cracking the case. Confirming the development, Senior Superintendent of Police of SAS Nagar, Deepak Pareek confirmed that a student was found dead. Initially, police suspected suicide; however, murder was confirmed after the investigation. The accused student was arrested yesterday late evening but he committed suicide in the police lock-up. The investigations are going in this matter, he said. Meanwhile, in another incident, Chandigarh Police arrested two students including a Panjab University student for the death of an outsider in the boys hostel number 7 of the university on Monday night following drug overdose. Those arrested are 21-year old Aryan Parbhat, a student at the University Institute of Hotel and Tourism Management, hailing from Banjar village of Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh and 24-year old Parikshit Kaushal belonging to Madhawani village in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. He is an ex-student of the university. The deceased also a resident of Kullu, had been staying in hostel number 7 as a guest of his friend. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
UDAN Scheme Marks Historic Growth in Indias Aviation Sector
The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme has revolutionized India's civil aviation sector, improving regional connectivity and making air travel accessible to millions across the country. On November 17, the domestic aviation sector marked a historic achievement, with 505,412 passengers flying on the same day for the first time, crossing the 5-lakh milestone in daily passenger numbers. This feat, with over 3,100 flights operating nationwide, highlights India's increasing role in the global aviation scene. The Ministry of Civil Aviation credited the UDAN scheme for this transformation, noting that it has successfully operationalized 609 routes, including helicopter services, connecting various states and union territories across India. The scheme has not only enhanced connectivity but also brought air travel closer to the common man, bridging the gap between aspirations and accessibility. Since its launch on October 21, 2016, the UDAN scheme has seen significant milestones, with the first UDAN flight taking off on April 27, 2017, connecting Shimla to Delhi. The latest UDAN 5.0 series (covering 5.0 to 5.4 phases) has introduced key improvements, such as removing distance caps, prioritizing operational airports, expanding helicopter and small aircraft services, and reactivating discontinued routes. These changes have ensured better air connectivity and affordability across India, especially for smaller cities and towns. The scheme has been a lifeline for regional carriers like Flybig, Star Air, IndiaOne Air, and Fly91, which have adopted sustainable business models, benefiting from the increased demand for regional air travel. The government's decision to extend the UDAN scheme for another 10 years is expected to further improve connectivity to underserved regions, fulfilling the aspirations of common citizens. As of October, 1.44 crore passengers have benefited from the scheme, with 609 routes and 86 airports now operational. Keralas New Seaplane Service to Boost Tourism: Launch Scheduled for November 11 SpiceJet Set to Launch Seaplane Services Across India to Boost Tourism and Connectivity SpiceJet Expands 8 New Flights from Jaipur as Part of Winter Schedule
